City news
All Aboard, West Chicago! The Legendary “Big Boy” Is Headed Our Way
Something big is rolling into town… really big.
The City of West Chicago is excited to share that Union Pacific Railroad’s legendary Big Boy No. 4014, one of the largest steam locomotives ever built, will make a stop right here in West Chicago as part of its 2026 coast-to-coast tour.
That’s right. A one-million-pound piece of living history will soon be chugging through the community that started it all. As Illinois’ first railroad town, West Chicago is uniquely positioned to welcome this iconic symbol of American innovation and movement.
“This is the kind of moment that brings people together,” said Mayor Daniel Bovey. “West Chicago was built by the railroad, and the ability to host Big Boy connects our story to a national celebration in a truly unforgettable way.”
A Once-in-a-Generation Experience
Big Boy No. 4014 isn’t just a train. It’s a legend on rails. Originally built in the 1940s and now fully restored, it stands as the only operating locomotive of its kind in the world. Its 2026 tour celebrates 250 years of American independence, making stops across the country, including West Chicago!
While details are still being finalized, the stop includes a public display on Wednesday, June 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., giving residents and visitors a chance to see this historic locomotive in person.
Why West Chicago?
West Chicago’s story begins with the railroad, making it a natural fit for a tour that celebrates the power of connection, industry, and innovation. As the City embraces its America 250 theme, “Unity in Community,” the arrival of Big Boy offers a powerful way to bring that theme to life.
Stay Tuned
Full details on how the community can take part in this unforgettable experience will be shared as plans are finalized.
When it arrives, you will not just see it. You will feel it. The ground will rumble, the whistle will echo, and for a moment, West Chicago will stand at the center of a story 250 years in the making.
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